Puberty Conclusion

Angela Oswalt Morelli , MSW

Puberty is both an exhilarating and a daunting time for youth and their caregivers. Tremendous and rapid changes occur that dramatically transform children's lives, exposing them to new dangers and new opportunities. With thoughtful listening and caring guidance, caregivers can help their children navigate this uncharted territory.

This document has reviewed the physical changes associated with puberty and the usual progression of these changes for boys and for girls. It has also discussed some of the common emotional and social changes youth are likely to go through while their bodies are changing.

In the final sections of this document, we have described signs and symptoms which may help parents recognize when children are in trouble and require parental or professional assistance even if they do not ask for it. Topic areas covered include mental illness, drug and alcohol use, and sexual abuse/assault.